Fishing for Presents on Father’s Day

It’s Father’s Day once again. You’re probably wondering what to get that special man in your life. Maybe he would like some equipment to do some lawn work, or maybe some fine cigars and wine. Perhaps your father is similar to the men on my mother’s side of the family. If that’s the case then I have some good ideas and tips for those looking to spend some quality time with their dad while fishing.

When I was a child, one of my favorite activities included fishing with my father. It didn’t matter what we were fishing for; it was just the ocean air, relaxing atmosphere and spending some quality time with my father that did it for me. My grandparents on my mother’s side lived right on the water—Jackson’s Marina to be exact.

They had a private dock on their property and I made sure to take full advantage of that, whether it was digging for “piss clams” (their actual name is steamers), trying to catch the shrimp under the dock with my little green net (the type of shrimp you use for bait, not eat) or, like mentioned above, fishing. I always had a great time.

Now back to dad—it is Father’s Day. First you have to think what you’re going to be buying him. Think hard… got it? Okay, good. I’m sure your ideas are great but I’ll give you a few of my own, since my dad was indeed the fishing type.

Reels, rods, lures and nets are some different things your old man might enjoy. These are the essentials when it comes to fishing. Chances are if you live on the East End you can purchase said items in your own town.

Personally, I would go to a department store, such as Kmart, or a sporting goods store. You’ll save a few bucks but still be able to get decent quality. I was able to pick up a pole for around twenty bucks at Kmart this past summer. I bought my lures from the local bait and tackle shop, which is located in my hometown of Hampton Bays.

As I’ve mentioned in past articles, my ability or lack of ability to fish doesn’t take away from having a fun time. I might not catch anything, but I make sure to have one heck of a time.

Each day is a learning experience.

Now you’ve bought your dad all the equipment needed to catch that big one. Now it’s time for you to find out what’s going to be jumpin’. That’s where your local fishing store comes in handy.

I’ll let you in on a few types of fish you can catch on the East End throughout this summer. First is fluke; they live and get their food on the bottom of the ocean. Fluke, which is a type of flounder, makes for a delicious and healthy meal. You can throw it in a pan with some lemon and you’re good to go. It can also be breaded and fried with breadcrumbs (my mother’s famous recipe uses pancake batter as a substitute).

Next is sea bass. You can catch these guys either out in the water on a boat or as well as at the canal. Bass tend to be a bigger fish and cost more if you were to buy it going out to dinner. But just like the fluke mentioned above the bass is a favorite among Long Islanders too.

Lastly is shellfish; you don’t even have to leave the shore to get them. All that’s needed is some mud right on the shoreline and your feet. You use your feet to dig in the mud and will find chowders, little necks, cherries and more. Digging takes some effort, but shellfish is really delicious.

With these tips on what may be some great ideas for your father this Father’s Day and with a little info on what’s out there, hopefully you’re well on your way of catching some monsters out there. Just make sure you have a great time, and as I always say, “whatever happens, happens.” Maybe you’ll be lucky, maybe you won’t, but you’re guaranteed to have an outing you’ll likely never forget.